University of artificial intelligence announced for Abu Dhabi

The university plans to introduce a new model of academia and research to the field of AI in the key areas of machine learning, computer vision and natural language processing.

UAE has a roadmap for an AI-driven future through its Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031

The first graduate level, research university in the world dedicated to artificial intelligence will open next year in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) is welcoming applications for its Master of Science (MSc) and PhD level programmes with registration set to open in August 2020.

New model of academia

The university plans to introduce a "new model of academia" and research to the field of AI in the key areas of machine learning, computer vision and natural language processing.

The first intake of students will begin coursework at MBZUAI located in Masdar City in September 2020.

“Launching of the world’s first graduate-level artificial intelligence university in Abu Dhabi echoes the UAE’s pioneering spirit, and paves the way towards a new era of innovation and technological advancement that benefits the UAE and the world,” tweeted Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, crown prince of Abu Dhabi.

Over the next decade, AI is set to have a transformational impact on the global economy, with experts estimating that by 2030, AI could contribute nearly $16 trillion to the global economy.

“The university will bring the discipline of AI into the forefront, moulding and empowering creative pioneers who can lead us to a new AI-empowered era”

Given this and the UAE’s focus on a knowledge-based economy, the country made AI a strategic national priority in 2017, announcing a roadmap for an AI-driven future through its Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, and the appointment of the world’s first minister for artificial intelligence.

Experts estimate that by 2030, AI’s contribution to the UAE’s GDP will rise to nearly 14 per cent.

“AI is already changing the world, but we can achieve so much more if we allow the limitless imagination of the human mind to fully explore it,” said Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE minister of state, who is spearheading the establishment of the university.

“The university will bring the discipline of AI into the forefront, moulding and empowering creative pioneers who can lead us to a new AI-empowered era.”

Experts from around the world have been selected for the university’s board of trustees.